Teacher Sues District, Says Students Trampled Her

PONTIAC (WWJ/AP) – A Metro Detroit teacher who claims students trampled her during an event last year has filed a lawsuit against the Walled Lake school district.

Eleni Anastos claims in her lawsuit seeking in excess of $25,000 that she was knocked down “helpless and prostrate” by a “stampede” of students celebrating a victory during the October Field Day event at Walled Lake Western High School.

Anastos is also suing a former student, claiming he “savagely attacked” and “stomped on her and kicked her violently” as he raced out of the stands onto the gym floor, The Detroit News reported.

The lawsuit claims Anastos, who remains employed by the district, was diagnosed with a herniated disc, a cervical sprain, multiple bruises and abrasions and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Spokeswoman Judy Evola said district officials have “no reason to believe a ‘trampling’ incident took place.”

The suit claims the school has defamed Anastos by implying she made up the event “because she is deranged or for financial gain.”

Anastos says she has been “deprived” of the identity of her assailant, of workers’ compensation benefits, and “made the subject of ridicule and scorn by teachers, administrators and others.”